AAEP presents Bonsall equine expert Barrie Grant with award

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Bonsall resident Barrie Grant, DVM, DACVS, MRCVS, was presented with the 2013 Distinguished Educator (Mentor) Award by the American Association of Equine Practitioners Dec. 10 in Nashville, Tenn. Grant, a pioneering equine surgeon and former educator who accelerated the careers of his students and trained fellow practitioners in the techniques of cervical stabilization, was recognized for his significant influence on others.

The Distinguished Educator (Mentor) Award honors an individual who by his or her actions and commitment has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners through mentoring.

As a professor of equine surgery from 1974-1991 at Washington State University, from which he earned his DVM in 1967, Grant strongly encouraged his students and residents to pursue the diagnosis and treatment of interesting cases, perform clinically related research, publish in peer-reviewed journals and present their work for the benefit of the profession. Grant selflessly promoted those who trained with him to the equine industry and to referring veterinarians, helping launch the careers of many who went on to leadership roles within the equine veterinary profession.

While at Washington State, Grant began working with human orthopedic surgeon Dr. George Bagby and fellow veterinarian Dr. Pam Wagner to develop the surgical treatment used in horses and people for cervical cord compression (wobblers). He has since trained many equine veterinarians in the techniques of cervical stabilization, helping countless horses lead productive lives.

Grant joined San Luis Rey Equine Hospital in Bonsall as an equine surgeon in 1991 and became co-owner in 1995, continuing to mentor and teach students and interns at this referral center. He left in 2008 to start an equine consulting practice.